Across the RASC

Each year between late July and early August, the Earth passes through comet Swift-Tuttle’s debris. The debris (mostly bits of dust) burn up in the atmosphere and the result can be a spectacular meteor shower. One of the best opportunities for viewing will be across the northern hemisphere between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. tonight (August 12). Look toward the northeast (Perseus), but expect to see the meteors in any part of the sky.

Simon Hanmer, a long-time member of the RASC (Ottawa Centre), is this year's recipient of the J. Willis Ambrose Medal of the Geological Association of Canada, awarded for "sustained dedicated service to the Canadian earth science community". Dr. Hanmer spent most of his professional career in the Geological Survey of Canada.

Cosmology - its tortuous history, glorious present and bright future

The lecture will describe the remarkable history of our understanding of the origin and evolution of our Universe from the time of Newton to the present day. The story culminates with the announcement of the first results of the ESA Planck mission, which has provided the clearest image of the early Universe yet produced and a wealth of new results of cosmological importance. The results will be placed in the context of the historical development of the subject.

International Astronomy Day: A Celebration of Astronomy

Saturday April 27 10am - 4pm and 7pm - 11pm

Have you ever wondered about planets around other stars? The physics of Angry Birds? How to make a telescope? Taking pictures of the night sky? We have the answers! Please join the Victoria Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada on Saturday April 27 at UVic's Bob Wright Building from 10am to 4pm, and 7pm to 11pm. Experience these topics and more!

Toronto, Canada (April 15, 2013) – Members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) and its 29 local RASC Centres will celebrate International Astronomy Day this Saturday, April 20, 2013. Be on the lookout for telescopes and astronomers to pop up unexpectedly on street corners, in shopping malls and other public places, ready and eager to bring the universe down to Earth for everyone!